wentyFirstCenturyBrand enables founders and CEOs of the world’s most innovative companies to realize transformational growth through excellence in marketing. As Head of Content & Production, Rachel is helping these influential brands leverage content to achieve their important missions. At Airbnb, Rachel spent 4 years at the forefront of Airbnb’s brand evolution into a purpose-driven travel brand, building and leading a global team of creators and brand storytellers. Prior to Airbnb, she led global production for Coca-Cola’s global brands and biggest moments: the Olympics and FIFA World Cup. She was recently named to AdWeek's List of 100 Most Creative People in 2017. She is a passionate contributor to women’s rights within the TED Women, UN Women and Silicon Valley communities.
influences
questionnaire
1. What was your very first job?
In college I had two first jobs: one at a coffee shop and another at the local ABC news affiliate where I edited news interstitials.
2. Please describe, in your own words, what your job is and what work it entails.
I have privilege of creating content for the world’s most innovative and purpose-driven companies. I do that through film, photography and digital storytelling.
3. How did you discover that the creative world was right for you? Was there a time in your life that you credit to this discovery? What was there train of events that brought you to where you are today?
I don’t remember a time when I wasn’t creative. My mother, an artist, began taking me to classes at the Art Institute of Chicago at a very young age and I always knew I would be surrounded by artists and creators.
4. In your constantly growing and expanding industry, how do you find inspiration to keep your work fresh, innovative and relevant?
I’m lucky in that my work spans across many disciplines and I have the freedom to bring in people who have expertise beyond my own. I have built a revolving door of experts from whom I can glean insights and knowledge. Also, travel - everywhere.
5. If you had to pick one piece of work or project that you are most proud of, more for the creative work and innovation it required, rather than its recognition or industry “success,” what would it be?
I’m incredibly proud of this short film we made recently for Airbnb’s sponsorship of San Francisco PRIDE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OL2P2u45SCA
6. Which creative disciplines do you commission most, and are most interested in seeing more of? (ie photo, film, social, experiential, vr, etc)
I commission mostly film work of all lengths, fidelities and genres.